The 2014 Domaine de Marzilly Champagne Ullens Vintage Blanc de Blancs is a rare and highly distinctive grower Champagne crafted from 100% Chardonnay grown in the Massif de Saint-Thierry, north-west of Reims. Produced by Maxime Ullens, one of Champagne’s most exciting artisanal producers, the wine is fermented and aged in oak barrels before extended maturation on lees. Bottled with zero dosage and disgorged in August 2020, it offers an uncompromising expression of both the vintage and the estate’s unique terroir.
The nose reveals lemon zest, green apple and white peach alongside notes of brioche, toasted almond and crushed chalk. The palate is precise and beautifully structured, combining vibrant citrus fruit with fine mousse and a striking mineral backbone. Layers of oyster shell, citrus peel and subtle pastry complexity unfold through a long, saline finish. The zero-dosage style emphasises the wine’s purity, tension and remarkable precision, while the cool 2014 vintage contributes freshness and elegance.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A superb Blanc de Blancs for lovers of terroir-driven Champagne. Pure, mineral and beautifully focused, it pairs wonderfully with oysters, scallops, lobster, sashimi and caviar. Drinking beautifully now, but it has the structure and acidity to evolve gracefully through 2035 and beyond, developing additional complexity while retaining its remarkable freshness.
